Red Clover and Acidic Soil

Growing Conditions

• Red clover (Trifolium pratense) grows well in a range of soil types but does best when the soil pH is in a slightly acidic range, within the 6 to 6.5 range. The pH balance is not the only factor you need to take into consideration when sowing red clover seed. To initiate germination, the seed needs adequate moisture and must be in an area free of competing weeds and vegetation. Red clover is a tender perennial crop that adds organic matter to soil and holds moisture. These attributes can contribute to a lowering of acidic conditions. Organic matter and water tend to bring down pH levels, but not to a staggering degree.

Acidic Soil Amendments

• If your pasture's soil is too acidic to successfully grow red clover, then it is also probably too acidic to support any other crop-covering vegetation. Red clover is one of the more acid-tolerant grazing crops. To control the pasture's acid levels, you will have to amend the soil with agricultural lime. Lime brings soil acid levels down to a range within 6 to 6.5 or lower, depending on the crops needs. Lime must be added to soil prior to sowing seeds. The amendment must then be worked uniformly throughout the soil and allowed to penetrate and dilute so that seeds will not be harmed and the crop will not be compromised.

Alkaline Soil Amendments

• Though red clover is capable of growing in alkaline conditions, such as those found in soils slightly above a 7 on the pH scale, the crop's health may be compromised. Growth may be lackluster and below average. Just as lime helps raise pH balances, elemental sulfur amendments help lower pH. If your field or pasture has alkaline soil, it may be more pragmatic to plant a cover crop like alfalfa, which is better suited for your growing conditions. Applying elemental sulfur across a large area may not be a cost-effective soil management solution.

Considerations

• Before adjusting your soil with amendments, it is necessary to take soil samples from various areas of your property and submit it for analysis. When chemical amendments like lime and sulfur are added in excessive quantities, your soil's structure can be damaged for years. Soil samples are sent to soil scientists, who are usually employed by your local university extension service. These scientists use a formula to provide you with the best application rate for your soil and the crop you plan on growing.